Treatment timing is everything
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children visit an orthodontist no later than age 7. Please see attached pamphlet for the AAO’s brochure on why it’s important to visit an orthodontist at an early age.
Many children will not be ready for treatment at this age but seeking an early evaluation has many benefits including early detection, increased oral hygiene knowledge and building a relationship with the team that will be treating them if, and when, they are ready.
Fortunately, we find with this approach, by the time most kids are ready they are excited about getting braces and it’s something they look forward to.
If your child is not ready for treatment, Dr. G will place them on a recall and will continue to monitor their oral development. If Dr. G feels there is some treatment that can help the jaws grow in a more favorable way and make treatment easier in the future, she will discuss the next steps at the consultation and we will work at your child's pace and comfort level. We find with this approach, often children feel proud of themselves. At the completion of the early treatment, we will have follow-up consultation to give your child photos of the results they achieved allowing them to bask in their success seeing the positive changes they’ve made in their mouth.
Good Dental Health Starts Early